Spring, summer, fall or winter, pests can be a huge problem at any time of the year. Whether you want to defend your property against rodents, insects, or wildlife, the best way to combat any unwanted visitors is by being prepared.
With a few easy tips, you can keep your home pest-free for good. Here are eleven simple rules to follow to stop unwanted invasions for good.
1. Spot Check
To make sure pests stay out, take preliminary precautions. Stay on the lookout for any possible signs of an infestation. Perform regular checks around your home, focusing your efforts on problem areas.
Keep in mind all the areas these pests my hang out: attics, basements, laundry rooms, behind big appliances, out in your garage, or even in your backyard. Take note of any trouble spots both indoors and out. Above all else, stay vigilant. A problem is easier to overcome when you catch it early.
2. Regular Maintenance
As the season’s pass, weather and time can take a toll on your home. This also creates opportunities and entryways for possible pest invasions. Regular house maintenance is critical for keeping unwanted creatures out. Inspect the exterior of your home and make any necessary repairs. Seal up cracks, fix any screens that have holes, and cover any areas that may entice pests into your home.
3. Watch the Water
When looking for the perfect home, pests usually need two things: water and food source. When it comes to rodents, they will follow a water source. Many insects seek out damp, cool places and mosquitoes need stagnant pools to breed. Watch the water on your property.
Check any possible areas water may pool and sit after a heavy rain, like birdbaths or garden equipment. Leaking pipes, gutters, and damp rooms are all draws, so be sure to perform regular maintenance on your home to discourage unwanted house guests.
4. Cut off Food Sources
The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in your home; not only for you and your family. Pests are often found anywhere there is food, and if you want to keep your house pest-free, it’s crucial to close the buffet. Keep the kitchen tidy and clean up thoroughly after meals.
It’s also a good idea to keep food to one room of the home, so there aren’t any unexpected guests popping up all over your house. Maintain your food storage by placing it in sealed containers, including pet food. It’s also a good idea to keep garbage in a sealed container as well. Cut off the food source, and pests will look elsewhere.
5. Keep Things Clean
In addition to keeping food contained, it’s essential that you clean up any clutter. Pests thrive in dirty, unkempt areas. Attics and basements are their favorite places to hideaway. Also, no matter how hard we try, it is possible that we may miss some crumbs in daily cleaning.
If possible, vacuum daily and perform a deep cleaning on your home at least once every month or two. Don’t give pests a place to hide or thrive by letting clutter pile up. Keep it clean.
6. Regular Lawn Maintenance
Just as important as a well-kept home is a maintained yard. Plenty of insects thrive in overgrown yards: ticks, mosquitoes, stink bugs, and more. Regularly cut your lawn and tend to your garden. Don’t let your overgrowth get out of hand. Overgrown areas are also a draw to many wild animals and rodents. If you want to keep pests at bay, take care of your property.
7. Watch What you Bring-in
Sometimes we are our own worst enemies, especially when it comes to bringing potential pests into our home. Insects can often end up inside simply by latching on to you, your pets, or anything you move inside your home.
Be mindful of what you bring into the house, from groceries to outdoor decor. Pests can be hiding, sometimes unknowingly, on anything. Ticks can easily grab onto animals or clothing, and bed bugs can hide away in your luggage. Carefully inspect anything you bring into your home to keep pests out.
8. Turn of the Lights
Insects are often drawn to light sources. Whether it’s a floodlight or a porch lamp, light attracts bugs. To keep them outside, simply turn off the lights near your home, especially near any entrances like doors and windows. If you want to keep your lights on for security reasons, consider using different bulbs or automatic lights.
9. Move Away Wood Piles
Wood piles serve as a dark, cool place for several pests and wildlife to hide. Some, like termites, can be quite destructive, while snakes can possibly be dangerous. If you do store wood, keep it at least 20 feet from your house.
10. Cover your Trash
An easy draw for any outside invaders is your trash. To discourage any unwanted visitors like bears or rodents, keep your trashed in a sealed container. Keep the lids locked if possible. Additionally, regularly clean out your trash cans to keep flies away.
11. Get Regular Inspections
Whether you’ve experienced an infestation or if you want to take extra precautions, scheduling regular inspections with a pest control expert can help protect your property. While it’s important to keep on top of your home’s maintenance, it’s still possible to experience pest problems. Additionally, you may not notice an infestation right away. An easy way to stay ahead of the game is by scheduling regular inspections.
Concluding Thoughts
No matter what time of year, pests can be an issue. Take the time to protect yourself and your family from any unwanted guests. If you are experiencing a pest problem or want to schedule an inspection, reach out to a pest control expert and protect your home today.